United get a point with wonder strike
NICK VAN DER VELDEN scored a sensation goal that Dutch master Johan Cruyff would have been proud of to deprive Queens of their first league victory at Tannadice for 83 years.
The veteran Dutchman twice played the ball over Jordan Marshall’s head until he was satisfied with his angle before drilling his shot beyond Lee Robinson. No wonder Tannadice erupted. However, the visitors, on their first visit to United on league business since 1964, deservedly held on for a wellearned point.
Afterwards United manager Ray McKinnon commented: “That was a high-quality goal from a high-quality player.
“It was magic, right out of the top drawer. I’m just disappointed we didn’t go on and win after Nick’s goal.
“My players were caught in the first half not realising just how good the standard is in this league.
“We didn’t start well and were too sloppy. Fortunately, we picked up the pace in the second half.
“I just hope this is the wake-up call the players needed.
“Queens came here with nothing to lose and so will many other teams.”
McKinnon revealed Lewis Toshney missed the game with a calf strain but the news about his full-back partner Paul Dixon is even worse.
“Paul is having an operation now on his damaged knee ligaments and will be out for two months. I thought Jamie Robson did well in his place.”
However, with United already short of defensive cover, it’s likely they’ll try to sign someone this week.
Queens showed United what teams are capable of in Scotland’s second tier.
They were the more purposeful side in the first half and deserved their interval lead.
The goal arrived after Cammy Bell did well to block a shot from Lyndon Dykes.
However the ball broke to Grant Anderson, who passed to the better placed Mark Millar to pick his spot.
After the break, the Tangerines stepped up the pace with Van der